Survivor Jim has ‘wonderful’ time at VJ Day celebrations

Jim Crossan, a surviving Japanese Prisoner of War from the Second World War, has returned home from London where he attended the 70th anniversary commemorations of VJ Day.

The 97-year-old grandad who lives in Warton was invited to a special church service alongside the Queen and Royal Family, David Cameron and fellow survivors, as well as a parade through Whitehall and flypast above Horse Guard’s Parade.

Jim said: “It was absolutely brilliant. It was wonderful to see so many people when we went from one place to another.

“We really didn’t expect it and the whole day was quite emotional.”

Jim travelled to London with his son Robin and the pair had prime positions at St-Martin’s-in-the-Field, where a special commemoration service was held on Saturday morning.

“We were right at the front with the band over our heads and the Prime Minister two seats away”, said Jim.

“I went to shake his hand and he said he’d come and see me later on, which he did.

“He was a very, very pleasant chap and Robin and I chatted to him about my experiences.”

He added: “We’ve had a lot of comments and people contacting us about the commemorations on Facebook from all over the world, including my niece in Vancouver. It’s been fantastic.”